The best things to do in Tokyo, according to a seasoned world traveler.
Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, is undeniably one of the world’s most popular travel destinations. As one of the largest cities on the planet, Tokyo is home to a vast range of immersive experiences, world-class cuisine and across-the-board cultural activities.
If you are preparing for an international escapade this year, No Manners has curated a list of 24 things to do, eat and see around Tokyo. This nonexhaustive list contains a variety of suggestions for your itinerary. Whether you are a foodie looking for the most memorable ramen, a fashion enthusiast seeking high-quality Japanese denim or even a casual anime watcher shopping for merchandise, there is something for you on the list.
What to Do
Take a Workshop at Betty Smith Jeans
Hidden on the fifth floor of an unassuming grey building, just a 10-minute walk from Ebisu Station, is the Betty Smith Jeans workshop. Japan was introduced to denim during the U.S. occupation period, but quickly transformed the jeans culture through manufacturing innovation. What began as an emulation of American fashion became a display of craftsmanship and quality; now, Japanese denim is widely recognized for its high quality and durability.
At the Betty Smith Jeans workshop in Ebisu, you can customize your own pair of jeans, or shop for unique denim souvenirs. During your session, you’ll choose a pair of jeans, then customize it with a selection of patches, buttons and rivets.
Traveler’s Tip: You will need to schedule an appointment on their website beforehand as the shop cannot accommodate walk-ins or last-minute changes. The total experience lasts about an hour, so plan your time accordingly.
Address: Japan, 〒150-0021 Tokyo, Shibuya, Ebisunishi, 2 Chome−4−7 ＮＮステーツビル 5F
Social Media: bettysmith_tokyo
Wander at The Imperial Palace
Ten minutes from Tokyo Station, at the heart of Tokyo, lies the Imperial Palace. Home to the Japanese Imperial Family, the palace is one of Japan’s most historic structures. While the inner grounds are closed to the public for the majority of the year, the East Gardens are open to the public. They contain traces of the original Edo Castle, though the original building was lost to fires. For a complete experience, consider taking a guided tour through the palace grounds.
Address: 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan
Website: https://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/english/guide/koukyo.html
Immerse Yourself at The Ghibli Museum
Take a subway ride to the western suburbs of Tokyo for an immersive experience at the Ghibli Museum. Hayao Miyazaki’s animated works are brought to life in exhibits spanning multiple floors. On your walk, you will encounter interactive displays, a recreation of Miyazaki’s work desk and a few beloved characters.
Though it’s a bit of a journey from the main hubbub of Tokyo, the experience is worth every second. Once you have completed your visit to the museum, round out your journey with a leisurely stroll in Inokashira Park.
Traveler’s Tip: Reservations for the subsequent month become available on the 10th of every month at 10 a.m. Japan Standard Time, so if you want to plan a visit in July, be prepared to buy your tickets on June 10.
Address: 〒181-0013 東京都三鷹市下連雀1丁目1-83
Website: https://www.ghibli-museum.jp/en/
Partake in a Japanese Tea Ceremony at Maikoya
Japanese tea ceremonies provide insight into long-standing tea-serving traditions. Across Japan, tea masters demonstrate the ritualistic preparation and drinking of matcha, usually alongside wagashi, traditional Japanese confections served with the tea.
At Maikoya, a tea house in Asakusa, you can partake in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. During the session, you’ll be given the opportunity to wear a kimono and learn how to prepare matcha alongside a tea master. Remember, the ceremonies are traditional practices drawing from Buddhist principles, and often require specific etiquette in terms of attire, tableside manners and use of utensils.
Address: 1 Chome-12-2 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Website: https://mai-ko.com/culture/tea-ceremony/
Read Your Fortune at Senso-ji Temple
Nearly any guide to Tokyo will tell you to visit Senso-ji Temple, the ancient Buddhist temple in Asakusa. While you may be inclined to pass on a major tourist attraction, per experience, Senso-ji Temple is a mandatory stop in a well-rounded Tokyo itinerary.
Early in the morning, you’ll find that you can roam free of crowds. The cool, peaceful morning air will give you space to learn about the temple’s history at your own pace. Plus, you’re welcome to pull a fortune at one of the stations peppered throughout the area and see what the year ahead holds for you.
Traveler’s Tip: If you are willing to brave crowds for the sake of trinket shopping, visit when vendors have opened their storefronts—Senso-ji Temple is a good place to find traditional Japanese wares.
Address: 〒111-0032 東京都台東区浅草2-3-1
Website: https://www.senso-ji.jp/english/
Build Your Pop Culture Collection in Akihabara
Akihabara Electric Town is the buzzing home of otaku culture in Tokyo. Pop culture, video game and anime enthusiasts alike wander the streets to shop for manga, figurines and other electronics. This is one of the most recommended locations for franchise fans to hit for their merchandise needs.
In Akihabara, you can easily find a number of shops specializing in anime, manga and trading card games. For those on the hunt for a specific product, the numerous shops in Akihabara might be the best place to look.
Traveler’s Tip: Keep in mind that prices here may be higher in Akihabara than in the lesser-visited areas of the city due to increased demand from tourist foot traffic.
Address: 1 Chome-12 Sotokanda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0021, Japan
Make Rings at ringram
Analog pastimes are certifiably in for 2026. If you long for a refreshing activity, look no further than ringram. This handmade jewelry specialty store is located in the hip neighborhood of Jingumae, close to Harajuku and Omotesando.
Be sure to register for an appointment well in advance, and come prepared to put in the work day-of. You will have an instructor to guide you through the process, but the heavy lifting is, for the most part, your responsibility. Bring a friend or partner and make an afternoon out of crafting each other a one-of-a-kind present.
Address: Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya, Jingumae, 4 Chome−26−3 原宿Mitte A棟
Website: https://ringram.jp/foreigners/
Take A Day Trip to A Neighboring City
Thanks to Japan’s widespread network of trains, travelling to and from cities is simple. If your Tokyo itinerary has breathing room, take a brief excursion to a nearby spot.
Popular destinations include Hakone or Kawaguchiko for views of Mount Fuji, the cosmopolitan port city of Yokohama or the seaside town of Enoshima. With a basic understanding of the railway system and a reserved ticket, anyone can manage the day trip.
What to Eat
The Flat Udon at Godaime Hanayama Udon Ginza
If Godaime Hanayama Udon sounds vaguely familiar, you may have seen the restaurant pop up on your For You Page. While not every TikTok-viral recommendation is a hit, this noodle shop in Ginza has rightfully earned its “must-try” status. The signature Hanayama Gozen, a flat udon noodle with dipping sauces, is a light but satisfying taste of Japanese cuisine.
Traveler’s Tip: Consider stopping by while shopping in the Ginza neighborhood. Make sure to line up before you get too hungry to get a ticket, and stay nearby while you wait to be seated.
Address: 東京都中央区銀座 3丁目14-13 B1
Social media: hanayamaudon_ginza_official
Breakfast at Misojyu
Earlier in our list, we suggested a morning stroll through Senso-ji Temple and the surrounding gardens. While the morning calm of Tokyo provides a lovely, serene atmosphere, many jetlagged tourists experience one issue: many of the city’s restaurants and stores only open after 10 a.m.
Misojyu is a small restaurant serving traditional Japanese breakfasts starting at 8 a.m. The early opening time makes it a fitting addition to your excursion to Senso-ji Temple. In the morning, the restaurant serves only the breakfast set, which comes with one of their freshly-made onigiri and soup.
Address: 〒111-0032 東京都台東区浅草1-7-5
Social media: misojyu
A Self-Heating Bento Box at The Train Station
We’ll cut straight to the point: self-heating bento boxes are equal parts gimmick and function. These innovative ready-to-eat meal sets come in neat packaging designed to trigger an exothermic reaction that warms up your food.
Don’t expect food to compete with Japan’s best-rated restaurants, but do embrace the novelty of enjoying a hot meal outside of home or a restaurant. These self-heating bentos are the perfect accompaniment to a longer ride on one of Japan’s intercity rails.
Traveler’s Tip: Pre-made bento boxes can easily be found in major transportation stations around Tokyo. For the self-heating variety, look for signs or labels that read 加熱式駅弁 (kanetsu-shiki ekiben).
Cream Puffs at Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory
Fans of Studio Ghibli, rejoice: there are two adorable bakeries in Tokyo where you can indulge in Totoro-shaped cream puffs.
The Setagaya location has a small upstairs cafe area, while the Kichijoji location, closer to the Ghibli Museum, is a takeout-only window.
Traveler’s Tip: Be sure to bring your sweet tooth and some cash for your payments.
Address: 東京都武蔵野市吉祥寺南町2丁目7-5
Social media: shirohige_puff
Anything from Sasaki Seimenjo
Sasaki Seimenjo is indicated by the Michelin Guide, and for good reason. This small shop serves comforting and hearty bowls of ramen in Suginami, on the western side of Tokyo. Navigating to the restaurant will transport you away from the bustle Tokyo is known for. Inside, you’ll place your order at a machine, including indicating customizations, and hand your order ticket to the chef.
When you go—because, trust me, you should go—make sure to bring cash for payment and consider arriving early to avoid waiting in line outdoors.
Address: 〒167-0042 東京都杉並区西荻北4-26-10 山愛コーポラス104
Website: https://sasakiseimenjo.shopinfo.jp/
The Ramen at Ichiran
Ichiran is perhaps Japan’s most popular Tonkotsu ramen restaurant. The restaurant is designed primarily to accommodate solo diners, with each client seated at their own Ramen Focus Booth. Conversations may be held at low volumes, but Ichiran’s goal is to direct your attention to your food.
Several Ichiran locations are easily accessible across Tokyo’s buzziest neighborhoods. Since it is usually open late (or for 24 hours), Ichiran is a convenient place to get a hearty meal at almost any time.
Address: Head to Shibuya if you want to be in the center of the action (Japan, 〒150-0041 Tokyo, Shibuya, Jinnan, 1 Chome−22−7 岩本ビル B1F) or to Shimbashi for slightly fewer crowds (Japan, 〒105-0004 Tokyo, Minato City, Shinbashi, 2 Chome−5−6 2F)
Website: https://en.ichiran.com/ramen/
A Drink at LOST
In the heart of Tokyo’s bustling Shibuya district, LOST offers travelers a moment of respite. The bar, founded by YouTubers Chris and Sharla Broad, is an homage to their years of experience in Japan. While LOST is a cocktail bar, the team strives to curate an environment that encourages conversations and cultural exploration.
LOST has a small menu that includes signature Japanese-inspired cocktails and mocktails and small snacks to accompany your drinks.
Traveler’s Tip: Don’t get lost on your way to the bar. Though many miss it at first glance, the door to the establishment is actually a gacha machine.
Address: Japan, 〒150-0042 Tokyo, Shibuya, Udagawacho, 33−1 2階
Social media: lostbarjapan
A Matcha Latte at Cloud Club
No guide to Tokyo would be complete without an overt mention of matcha. Matcha was arguably the social media drink of the year in 2025, but in Japan, it is (and has always been) the foundation of tea ceremonies. That being said, Tokyo has a matcha for all, so long as you search for it.
Among the delectable drinks we experienced in Tokyo, the iced latte from Cloud Club stood out. Located in Ginza, Cloud Club is an appropriately trendy shop window serving matcha lattes with up to seven grams of matcha. For those worried about their overall caffeine intake, fret not—Cloud Club also offers a hojicha latte.
Address: 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 3-chōme−14−6 ENT TERRACE GINZA PREMIUM
Social media: cloudclub_ginza
Take A Coffee Break at Glitch Coffee and Roasters
Located in Ginza, Glitch Coffee and Roasters is a masterclass in drip coffee. The unassuming café takes the hand drip process seriously and carries a variety of coffee beans—more than 10 in the store at any time.
Upon entering, the baristas will walk you through the various coffee bean origins and flavor profiles before you take your order. From there, you’re welcome to lounge while enjoying your drink. Trust us when we say you’ll walk away with a newfound appreciation for coffee.
Address: Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 4 Chome−14−8 VORT銀座イーストIII 1階
Website: https://glitchcoffee.com/
The Pizza at Pizza Marumo
Yes, we know: when you think of Japan, you probably don’t immediately think of pizza. However, Tokyo is home to top-notch pizzerias that innovate on the Italian staple. Pizza Marumo, located in the Ebisu neighborhood, is a medium-sized restaurant serving up some of the best pizza in the area.
For a peek behind the curtain, make a reservation at the bar. From this vantage point, you can watch as chefs prepare the food with practiced efficiency. Rather than sticking to tried-and-true toppings, you may want to try some of their innovative menu offerings: Sakura Shrimp and Black Seven Spice, PJ or even the Mentaiko Cream Focaccia.
Address: Japan, 〒150-0022 Tokyo, Shibuya, Ebisuminami, 1 Chome−11−13 恵比寿ヴェルソービル 1階
Social media: pizzamarumo
A Brownie at Fat Witch Bakery
Fat Witch Bakery is a New York-based, woman-owned bakery that specializes in brownies. Founded in 1998, this small shop offers brownies in a variety of innovative flavors. After a successful expansion to Kyoto in 2016, the shop took its New York-style brownies to Tokyo.
Located near Daikan-Yama station, Fat Witch Bakery is easily accessible from Shibuya. Based on almost 10 years of semi-consistent Fat Witch brownie consumption, I recommend the Matcha Baby, Yuzu Baby or the Coffee Witch for a first-time visit.
Address: Japan, 〒150-0033 Tokyo, Shibuya, Sarugakucho, 29−9 ヒルサイドテラスD 12
Social media: fatwitchjapan
What to Shop
Vintage and Second-Hand in Omotesando
Omotesando Hills is a heaven of sorts for secondhand shopping, especially if you’re in the market for luxury goods. Taking a stroll through the area, you’ll find established shops that curate high-quality collections of new and vintage items, ranging from accessories and purses to ready-to-wear clothing.
Popular shopping destinations include QOO, Brand Collect or any of the Amore stores huddled west of Omotesando station, though there are storefronts all over the neighborhood. Before you visit, do some research into the best stores for your desired products.
Address: 3 Chome-6-12 Kita-Aoyama, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0061, Japan
Website: https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/2175/
Phone Cases at cas:pace
Harajuku is known primarily for its vibrant fashion and animated wares. Among the lively shops packed together is cas:pace, a small, social media-viral store that sells phone accessories for various mobile phone models.
cas:pace is most popular for its range of phone case offerings, many of which are designed after recognizable Japanese things: the Tokyo Metro, a gasha-pon machine and even vending machines.
Address: Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya, Jingumae, 3 Chome−24−3 桑原ビル 1階B
Social media: caspace_official
Custom Sneakers at Onitsuka Tiger Ginza
Founded in 1949, Onitsuka Tiger is a historic Japanese footwear brand known for its striped design, unique colorways and sleek silhouettes. While you’ll find several stores sprinkled throughout Tokyo, be aware that the hype around the brand consistently draws hordes of enthusiastic shoppers.
At the Onitsuka Tiger Ginza Red Concept Store, you can get same-day custom embroidery with the purchase of a pair of sneakers.
Traveler’s Tip: The Ginza Red Concept Store is arguably the most popular spot to shop for Onitsuka Tiger footwear, so arrive before the store opens to claim an entry ticket, know your shoe size in advance and prepare a few backup models in case your top choice is unavailable.
Address: 東京都中央区銀座4-5-1
Social media: onitsukatigerofficial
Japanese Denim at Momotaro Jeans
Among the many things Japan is known for is Japanese Denim, a high-quality, thick fabric that yields sturdy and long-lasting jeans. Though you’ll have plenty of options to choose from for your next denim obsession, Momotaro Jeans is our personal recommendation for a functional keepsake.
The storefront in Aoyama offers day-of tailoring services with any pair of jeans purchased, so be sure to take advantage of the experience. As Momotaro is a popular brand, however, be aware that your size may not be in stock during busy tourist seasons.
Address: Japan, 〒107-0061 Tokyo, Minato City, Kita-Aoyama, 3 Chome−11−7 AOビル 2階
Social media: momotarojeans_official
Japanese Knives from Kappabashi Street
Whether you’re an aspiring professional chef or an amateur hoping to improve your culinary skills, the right tools can go a long way in the kitchen. Japanese knives are high-quality, known for their sharpness and durability.
At Kappabashi Street, also known as Kappabashi Kitchenware Town, you can find a range of Japanese culinary tools—including the perfect knife for your collection. Additionally, find all types of ceramics, cutlery and other miscellaneous tchotchkes to take home with you.
Address: 3 Chome-18-2 Matsugaya, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0036, Japan
Website: https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/390/
